First 456 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Beneteau First 456 marked an important period for Beneteau, as the company, already a leader in the fiberglass revolution, sought to solidify its position in the market for larger, more luxurious sailing yachts. Production of the First 456 began in 1982 and continued for approximately four years. Beneteau partnered with German Frers, an architect highly regarded for his successful racing designs, to sculpt a yacht that was not only competitive on the racecourse but also offered substantial comfort for extended cruising. Frers's philosophy for the 456 aimed to deliver a powerful, ocean-racing machine capable of racking up wins, while simultaneously ensuring it remained comfortable and avoided the "pounding" motion often associated with performance boats of its era.

During this period, Beneteau's manufacturing ethos, deeply rooted in its transition from traditional wooden fishing boats to efficient fiberglass construction, emphasized robust build quality and a harmonious balance between performance and livability. The First 456 was built with a solid fiberglass hull and a balsa-cored fiberglass deck, featuring a hull-to-deck joint incorporating an aluminum toerail. Notably, the First 456 was offered with a variety of rig and keel options, reflecting its versatile design goals. These variations included a shoal draft keel, a keel/centerboard combination, and at least three different masthead rig configurations, allowing owners to tailor the boat to their specific sailing needs and local conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 456 is designed for spirited sailing, combining a performance-oriented hull form with ample sail area. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.5, she exhibits good, though not exceptional, performance in lighter winds, suggesting a balanced approach rather than an extreme light-air specialist. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.34 indicates a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind without excessive heel. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 195 classifies the First 456 as a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for her size, contributing to her agile handling characteristics and speed potential.

Anecdotal reports praise the First 456 for its robust design and ability to handle various sea states gracefully. She is noted for her fantastic lines and powerful rig, remaining competitive in racing even decades after her launch. Owners and reviewers frequently highlight her as a fast and sturdy sailboat, well-suited for long voyages. The hull design, particularly its forefoot, contributes to a comfortable motion when sailing upwind, preventing the harsh "pounding" often experienced on some other performance cruisers. The cockpit is described as deceptively large, offering moderate comfort and a high degree of safety, particularly in heavy seas, due in part to a substantial bridgedeck.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications vary by individual boat and owner customizations, the Beneteau First 456 was designed to offer comfortable and practical accommodations for cruising. The interior typically features a well-appointed layout that balances living space with functionality suitable for offshore passages. Depending on the specific configuration, the aft section of the boat might include either two quarter-cabins, each with small double berths, or a single, more spacious owner's cabin.

The interior finish generally reflects a traditional yachting aesthetic, often incorporating warm wood trim that creates a cozy cabin atmosphere. Given its design era, the emphasis would have been on robust construction and practical use of space, though many boats of this vintage, including the First 456, were often fitted with teak decks, a feature that, while aesthetically pleasing, often requires diligent maintenance over time. Overall, the layout aims to provide a comfortable environment, balancing the pleasures of life at sea with modern amenities, appealing to sailors who prioritize both performance and on-board living.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 456 frequently commend the vessel for its inherent robustness and design, which has allowed it to stand the test of time and maintain its reputation for capable sailing. The boat's solid construction and ability to perform well in varying conditions are commonly cited strengths, making it a favored choice for those considering longer voyages or seeking a spirited sailing experience that doesn't compromise on security. The Beneteau brand, including the First 456, benefits from a strong sense of community among owners, with various forums and groups facilitating shared experiences and knowledge exchange.

However, as with any vessel of its age, prospective owners should be aware of common maintenance considerations. While not specific to the 456, general Beneteau characteristics of the era can include issues like the potential for deck core rot, corrosion, or original deck fittings developing leaks, which may require re-bedding. Additionally, boats fitted with extensive teak decking may require significant ongoing maintenance or restoration. Despite these potential age-related issues, the collective opinion often underscores the First 456 as a durable and rewarding sailboat for both performance-oriented cruising and competitive racing.